Dear Community:

On this 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Jesus presents us with the parable of the two sons. A father asks one of his sons to go and work in the vineyard. At first, the son says no, but later changes his mind and goes. The other son says yes, but ultimately does not fulfill what he promised. Through this simple parable, Jesus teaches us that our relationship with God is measured not only by our words, but by the way we live our faith and respond to His will.

Many times, we too can say “yes” to the Lord with our lips, but find it difficult to put that “yes” into action. We may participate in the life of the Church, pray, and express good intentions, but true conversion is revealed when our decisions, relationships, and service reflect God’s love. On the other hand, someone who may have wandered away or made mistakes can experience a change of heart and begin again. God always leaves the door of conversion open.

This Gospel reminds us that it is never too late to change. The Lord does not remain focused on our past; He looks at our hearts and at our willingness to return to Him. His mercy offers us new opportunities to begin again. As a parish community, we are called to be a Church that welcomes, does not judge too quickly, and helps each person discover that they can always return to the Father’s house and find new hope in Him.

Let us ask the Lord for the grace that our “yes” may be a true yes, expressed not only through our words but through our actions. May we learn to listen to His voice, recognize our mistakes, and have the humility to change when necessary. And may our lives respond each day to Jesus’ invitation to work in His vineyard.

May our faith become concrete acts of love, service, forgiveness, and mercy, so that others may recognize the presence of Christ in us.

God bless you all,

Rev. Julio Fernández